Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Howdy,Just blogged about Houston trip at Where in the World is Diana Today. Check it out.Also, I twitter about my travels and just whatever I feel like -- check it out or hey, why not follow me on twitter?Back in Denver to the "real" world tomorrow.Diana

From Driskill's web site: "Built in 1886 as the showplace of cattle baron Jesse Driskill, The Driskill remains a landmark of Texas hospitality. As a member of The Historic Hotels of America and Associated Luxury Hotels International, The Driskill offers an elite level of luxury and service to rank as one the world's finest hotels. Located in downtown Austin, the legendary, historic hotel is convenient to all the city has to offer, including the Texas State Capitol, Austin Convention Center, opera, symphony, fine dining and shopping. Known as the "Live Music Capital of the World,®" Austin is home to almost 200 music venues, many within walking distance of The Driskill. "

First stop was Austin City Limits, the longest running music show on television. Since 1974, Coldplay, Sheryl Crow, Beck, Dolly Parton, Lyrnyrd Skynyrd, Robert Plant and more have performed on this stage.

Explored South Congress Avenue, called the "hip strip" lined funky vintage-cool boutiques, live music at the Continental Club, and drank a margarita at Guero's and stopped by the hugest costume shop I've ever been in.

Dinner was at Ranch 616, local favorite themed after a South Texas ice house, serving upscale Southwestern cuisine. Yes, I did sample "Fire in the Hole" the newly-named "official drink of Austin"...

Wednesday, October 08, 2008

I'd heard Harry's Bar was a local "hangout" for businesspersons on their way home, but it wasn't until yesterday that I was able to enjoy the fascinating people-watching and HUGE appetizers (14 mini-hamburger sliders with mango salsa!) at Harry's Bar, a part of Magnolia Hotel Denver.

This summer the 246-room property completed a $7 Million renovation from top to bottom, including new paint, carpet, furnishings, bedding, décor and fixtures throughout. Bathrooms were redone with oversized Kohler porcelain sinks, marble tile and new fixtures. The Magnolia has a new, enhanced linen package that rivals the world’s finest hotels—guests are already raving about the incredibly comfortable bedding. Consisting of a top-of-the-line Sealy mattress, a mattress topper and mattress pad, 300-thread-count sheets, a triple-sheeted down blanket and an accent throw, plus two white goose down-filled pillows and two poly-filled pillows, the deluxe bedding ensemble ensures a restful night’s sleep. New furnishings include contemporary dark wood tables, dressers and nightstands in classic, clean lines, along with oversized sofas and chairs. Historical elements including the architecturally alluring 11-and-12-foot tall ceilings with crown molding and oversized original windows make the guestrooms and suites open and inviting. The rooms are again funky, and perfect for both pleasure and business guests. Business guests will particularly like the oversized safes, with enough space to secure your laptop!

Probably the best part are the nooks and crannies, reminiscent of the 70's, located throughout the downstairs in the Magnolia Club. Their “Mag Time” concept offers complimentary hot American buffet breakfast, evening happy hour, and a bedtime fresh-baked cookie and milk buffet, amounting to extraordinary value.